KARACHI:
Domestic violence is a grim reality of our society. Survivors of domestic violence struggle to share their experiences of violence with others and seek help due to family expectations, cultural values, and societal pressure. Consequently, they feel isolated or humiliated when they try to escape their abusive relationships. The guilt and loneliness discourage many women from escaping their abusive marriages. They instead remain with their partners in hopes of repairing their relationships.
Most women do not feel safe sharing their experiences of abuse with their families or friends and those who do end up sharing are usually advised to stay with their partners. Although this advice may be well-intended, it can work as gaslighting or victim-blaming. Thereby the victim may feel as if they are either overreacting or deserve the violence. Children who witness domestic violence in their homes are also affected by it in different ways. Whilst some go on to adopt abusive behaviours themselves, others may find themselves anxious or distressed all the time. The traumatic memories and behavioural patterns can affect children in their adulthood as well.
In Pakistan, it is extremely difficult for women to leave their abusive marriages because of the shame and stigma attached to divorce. Therefore, the relevant authorities must establish support services to assist victims of domestic violence, offer them support, and rehabilitate them. Children who have either witnessed or experienced domestic violence should also be offered counselling or therapy to address their traumas and reduce negative feelings and emotions.
Intikhab Alam
Peshawar
Published in The Express Tribune, August 17th, 2022.
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